There are few things more destructive to a home than a water leak or a drain leak. If a leak goes unnoticed for an extended period of time, the damage could be exceptional. New home buyers (and even veteran homeowners) should be aware of these 4 most common home plumbing leaks.
1. Invading Tree Roots
At Hudson Plumbing, one of the most common water leaks we see in Morgan County, Indiana is actually outside the home: tree roots. Tree roots migrate toward whatever source of water they can get, and a lot of times that means your home’s water and/or drain lines. Over time they can penetrate the line and cause water to leak or even completely clog up your drainage system. If you notice excess water standing in your yard or you notice sinkholes developing, you may have a water leak.
2. Dripping Faucets
When the water bill spikes, the two most likely scenarios are that there’s a toilet in the home that keeps running…or one of the faucets is dripping. While a dripping faucet might not seem like such a terrible thing, it can cost hundreds of dollars a month. Or more. A faucet begins to drip when the internal washer becomes stiff or over-worn from use. The good news is it’s easily repairable by simply swapping out the defective washer for a new one.
3. Water Heaters
Traditional tank water heaters constantly process water. Over time, they may become prone to leaks around the base of the unit or at the temperature relief valve. If your home’s water isn’t processed through a water softener, calcium buildup could accumulate within the tank which can increase the likelihood of a leak.
4. Hose Bibs and Yard Hydrants
Hose bibs and yard hydrants are susceptible to harsh winter conditions. Extremely cold winters cause many hose bibs and hydrants to freeze and burst in and around Morgan County. If there are signs of damp walls, mildew, or even mold around your fixtures, you probably have a leak.
LEARN TO DETECT A WATER LEAK BEFORE IT BECOMES A MAJOR PROBLEM
It’s best to get in front of a potential water leak before it wrecks havoc on your home. Water damage can result in mildew, black mold, destroyed drywall, and worse. If you have questions or concerns about a leak in or outside your home, contact Hudson Plumbing ASAP to determine the root cause and minimize the water damage.